Durock Mamba vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a linear mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Durock Mamba and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°. The Durock Mamba is celebrated for its smooth typing experience and satisfying auditory feedback, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering a silent typing experience with unparalleled smoothness and stability. While both switches have their unique strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° exhibit distinct characteristics that affect the overall sound profile of the switches. The Mamba's polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offer a pleasant, bright sound profile that is not particularly sharp. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design.
The differences continue with the bottom housings of the two switches. The Mamba's POM bottom housing produces a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Zero Degree 0°'s nylon bottom housing elicits a fuller and deeper sound due to its softer nature. This contrast in materials highlights how the choice of housing material can influence the overall typing experience, affecting not only the sound but also the feel of the switches as they are pressed and released.
While the Mamba and Zero Degree 0° utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, the impact of each material is felt when typing on the switches. The qualities of the bottom housing material contribute to the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound when a key is released. Understanding how each housing material affects the sound profile and overall typing experience can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch have some significant differences. The Durock Mamba has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it the heavier option between the two. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter in comparison. This means that the Mamba will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Zero Degree 0° will offer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches have their advantages, with the Mamba catering to those who prefer a heavier force and the Zero Degree 0° suiting those who like a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Mamba linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although the difference in travel distance is minimal, it can impact the typing or gaming experience for some users. Those who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Mamba switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may prefer the Zero Degree 0° switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing style. Despite the slight variation in travel distance, both switches offer a similar overall experience in terms of key activation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Durock Mamba linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various typing scenarios. The switch also produces a thocky sound, characterized by a deep and satisfying auditory experience. This rich sound quality adds to the overall typing experience, creating a pleasant typing atmosphere. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is known for its silent typing capabilities, absorbing sound and reducing noise due to its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. The switch does not have a specific sound description provided, but its focus on noise reduction indicates a quiet typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Mamba switch provides a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. With its polished finish, the switch offers smooth and refined key travel, reducing friction and enhancing the overall typing feel. This polished feature contributes to a sleek typing experience, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant typing session. Similarly, the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not explicitly described, but its focus on smoothness and stability suggests a comfortable and smooth typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, both the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer unique qualities that contribute to a positive typing experience. While the Mamba switch excels in providing a rich and creamy auditory experience and a polished, mild feel, the Zero Degree 0° switch stands out for its silent typing capabilities and focus on smoothness and stability. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, users can achieve similar satisfactory results with both switches. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preferences and the specific typing needs of the user.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a gliding typing sensation with a rich auditory experience, the Mamba may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise, the Zero Degree 0° might be more suitable. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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